Forest observational studies-an essential infrastructure for sustainable use of natural resources

Abstract

This contribution complements Forest Ecosystems' Thematic Series on "Forest Observational Studies". We provide essential clarification regarding the definition and purpose of long-term field studies, review some of the extensive literature and discuss different approaches to collecting field data. We also describe two newly established forest observational networks that serve to illustrate the scope and diversity of forest field studies. The first is a large-scale network of forest observational studies in prominent natural forest ecosystems in China. The second example demonstrates observational studies in mixed and uneven-aged pine-oak forests which are selectively managed by local communities in Mexico. We summarize the potential for analysing and modeling forest ecosystems within interdisciplinary projects and provide argumentation in favour of long-term institutional commitment to maintaining forest observational field studies.

Effects of density dependence in a temperate forest in northeastern China

“…The topography includes a valley between two slopes with elevations ranging from 576 to 784 m above sea level. For more details about the basic strategy regarding large permanent observational studies in China see Zhao et al 33. and Gadow et al 34…”

Drivers of seedling survival in a temperate forest and their relative importance at three stages of succession

“…The study was carried out in a typical temperate mixed broadleaf–conifer forest in Jilin province, northeastern China, in an experimental forest, located at (43°51′–44°05′N, 127°35′–127°51′E) which is under the jurisdiction of the Jiaohe Administrative Bureau (Zhao et al. , Fig. ).…”

Tamm Review: On the strength of evidence when comparing ecosystem functions of mixtures with monocultures

“…There can be many variations of SFPs that might be classified in terms of whether different treatments have been applied specifically for the study, or the plots were selected based on already existing site, age, composition or structural characteristics, or whether they are permanent sampling plots, etc. (Zhao et al, 2014) but these distinctions are less relevant to the mixing effects discussed in this synthesis. Generally, the number of variables measured and the intensity of measurement is highest in planted experiments and lowest in inventories (Baeten et al, 2013).…”